Good Morning!
Sometimes I love Mondays, and sometimes I don’t. I look at them as fresh starts. I love setting goals on Monday and working hard to reach them all week. I had a pretty fantastic week, and I’m excited to blog about it. I woke up early to walk the dogs, make coffee, and blog because today is going to be fun. I’m heading to my hair appointment around eleven. I haven’t had my hair cut since January! It’s way too long and overdue for a cut. It’s so hard to work out with my hair being so heavy because it falls out of the pony tail or breaks off. It’s hard to style, and I’m tired of walking around with a mop on my head. I may go short, we’ll see!
**edit** I had to take a break from the post because I didn’t finish it before the appointment! Before and after hair photos are at the bottom!**
Today is also a very special day. It marks one year since I jumped out of an airplane! It also marks 29 years since the love of my life was born! Happy birthday to, Kyle! We are going to have a gym date tonight followed by Chipotle, cake and ice cream! His request 😉
I’m starting the weekly recap post with Wednesday.
I wasn’t feeling too great when I woke up. It was one of those days where the energy wasn’t kicking in, and I had no motivation to do anything. But, I also had the urge to do something. Such a weird mood. I managed to work on the blog and emails all day.
I knew I had to get up and do something. I took a must-need rest day on Tuesday, so I decided to head to an athletic conditioning class on Wednesday night. It wasn’t with my usual Wednesday night instructor (:(), but it was still a great workout. I wasn’t a fan of all the dance-y movements (never am) but I was sweating and feeling it afterward.
A couple of hours before my workouts, I went a little heavy on the carbs. This is the best way for me to get energy when I’m feeling sluggish, and it made me feel so energetic and awesome during my workout. The weird feelings I had in the morning were completely gone after I left the gym. Sometimes a little sweat sesh is all you need!
Meighan and I were taking our dad’s to the PGA golf tournament on Thursday, so I headed to the mall after the gym to pick up some shorts. I ended up getting a couple of pairs of shorts and two golf/tennis skorts that were so cute! I normally don’t do Lilly Pulitzer or crazy patterned bottoms, but I loved the way they fit. Here is the skort I bought!
After spending an hour walking around the mall, I stopped at Chopt to pick up dinner. I usually build my own salad when I’m there. My salad had the Chopt blend (kale, romaine, spinach), cucumber, avocado, goat cheese, butternut squash, chickpeas, double grilled chicken, egg whites, and spicy honey vinaigrette.
I woke up at 5 am on Thursday morning. I had to get the dogs walked and a cup of coffee before starting the busy day. I had to drive thirty minutes (in rush hour) to pick up my dad and bring him to Charlotte for the tournament. We headed back uptown around 8 am to meet up with Meighan and her dad! Our dads were so excited.
Because there is no parking at the tournament, we had to take the light rail from uptown to the shuttles in Southend. The transportation went smooth!
We were excited to spend the day with our dad’s, check out the cute golfers (love you, Kyle), and eat so many snacks!
I bought this top last summer at Express, but they don’t have it in stores or online anymore! A lot of you were asking me about it. I found a similar one online here! The shoes I’m wearing are from Target, and literally my favorite! They are so comfortable and I’m obsessed with the crystals and blue color. You can find them here! They come in three colors!
Happy dad!
Bubba Watson! Justin Bieber was at the tournament with him during the practice rounds.
He didn’t do too well though ;/
I didn’t have time to sit down and have a breakfast, so this RXBAR saved my life! I was so hungry and didn’t feel like eating lunch food at 10 am. The Mint is one of my favorite flavors!
We picked the best day to go! It wasn’t muggy or humid and the only day without rain during the tourney!
Besties!
Jordan Speith, my dad’s favorite golfer! (Next to Phil, Nicholson)
We were starving around 1 pm. They actually had really good food there! I had a Greek salad, and was shocked at how tasty it was! The dressing and feta cheese was on point.
I also bought an orange because they were so juicy looking! Couldn’t resist.
Meighan and I figured our dads would be ready to go around two, but NOPE! They were glued to the golfers. I don’t know where those two get their energy from. We were going to stay as long as they wanted though because it was all about them!
Meighan and I ended up just walking around and exploring. We lost our dads about six times, but we always managed to find them somewhere.
We hit 20,000 steps during the tournament…
FEEEEEELS.
Meighan snapped my first experience ever in a porta potty. These were clean, but still terrifying.
Six hours in.
Of course, we had to buy hats!
Link to my shorts: HERE
Link to Meighan’s shorts: HERE
Nine hours later…we were still there! We thought our dads would have had enough, but they wanted to milk it to the end! Meighan and I walked around like starving wolves until we found a concession stand. We bought a turkey BLT wrap, pretzels, and water bottles to chow down on the last couple hours! It was a long day!
We left the tournament at 7:30, made it uptown at 8:15, and I had to take my dad back home, so I didn’t get home until 9:30 pm! But it made our dad’s so happy, so it was worth every minute!
Thank goodness, I had leftover Chopt! I had some before falling asleep. I slept like a baby!
Friday morning 5:30 am breakfast before three-mile dog walk: Dave’s Killer Bread with peanut butter and coffee!
Friday 10 am breakfast before boot camp: two eggs, small apple, kiwi, and Sigis!
When Meighan and I got to the gym, we saw a note on the door that said our boot camp class was canceled! We didn’t let that stop us from having a kick-butt workout! We came up with a game plan and got to it! We started with a one mile run on the track and headed to the floor to start our circuit. This workout is so awesome to do with a friend! We alternated the exercises to use less space in the gym. We were drenched with sweat after that workout! I think the worst part of the workout was the run and not because it was running. There was a basketball tournament going on in the gym, and they loaded the tables with fifty boxes of dominos pizza. Do you know how heavenly that smelled?!?!
Instead of caving in and ordering pizza, I stopped at the Fresh Market. On the way home, I had pineapple chunks and a Sambazon energy drink.
I picked up some RXBARS, cotton candy grapes (holy moly, they taste just like cotton candy & for real), broccoli salad, grilled chicken, Goodman gluten free cookies, honey roasted peanut butter, Hint sparkling water, and coffee creamer!
For lunch, I had one cup of broccoli salad (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, raisins, apple cider vinaigrette, honey) and grilled chicken on top!
I ended Friday night at Central Coffee Co! Becca, and I caught up over a cup of coffee. I had a skim cappuccino with an extra shot of espresso.
Early Saturday morning, Meighan and I headed to boot camp! Holy Moly! It was hard, but also fun! I do really well with station workouts because it’s always being changed up and it’s quick! I don’t get bored or burnt out on the same movements. We warmed up with five minutes on the track and then did each station for 20 seconds on and ten seconds off eight times. After we got through all the stations, we went through them again for thirty seconds one time.
The struggle…
After boot camp, Grumples and I headed out for a long walk together. Leo was getting groomed, so I decided to spend some time with just Grumps.
I spent more time on my lessons Saturday afternoon. I am trying to do 1-2 a week. I’m really enjoying the chapters and learning so much about the body and fitness. If you’re interested in personal training, you can check out more with my link! Personal Trainer Certification
Kyle and I headed to the mall Saturday afternoon to shop around. I got sucked into all the adorable things at Fabletics! I’ve been looking for a new gym bag, so if you have any suggestions let me know!
We stopped at Reid’s Fine Foods on the way home to pick up some snacks. They had unique foods, wine, cheeses, and I want to eat there next time! It reminds me of Dean & Deluca! I’m embarrassed that it was my first time at the store.
I was on a Chopt kick this week. I stopped there on the way home to pick up my dinner! My salad had the Chopt blend, double chicken, cucumber, butternut squash, avocado, goat cheese, cranberries, egg whites, and bell peppers. I mixed in Greek yogurt ranch and the hot honey vinaigrette.
Grumples and I hopped on the couch and watched Pretty Woman. That is one of my favorite movies!
Morning studies!
I headed to the grocery store to grab coffee early Sunday morning. I ran into Meighan on the way home (literally can’t get away from each other haha!), and she said she was going to a HIIT class at 1 pm if I wanted to join her. I told her that it was my rest day, but I’d walk there with her.
Of course, I had FOMO, so I ended up joining the workout! I was happy after doing it! It was a great workout, and I’ll be able to go light today! I plan on doing the treadmill and a little lifting tonight. A lot of you were asking about the workouts I do, so I’m trying hard to remember them and write them down after class to share!
We stopped at Amelies on our walk home to grab some post-workout refreshments! My drink had pureed passion fruit, strawberries, lemon juice, and sparkling water! I bought all the ingredients at Whole Foods yesterday so I could make the drink myself. They didn’t have passion fruit, so I bought mango instead.
I decided to head to Whole Foods to pick up ingredients for dinner. I wanted to make something special for Kyle since it was his birthday eve!
For dinner, we had baked salmon, roasted potatoes, and broccoli! Those sweet potato chips and salsa were deadly! Kyle said that was the best salsa he’s ever had. I had to agree with him!
I tossed the potatoes in olive oil and seasoned them with onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and minced onion. I baked them for 28 minutes at 425 degrees.
I also flipped them over halfway through!
I bought a two and a half pound salmon! It was about two inches thick in the center, so I knew it was going to be delicious and fall apart every bite.
I used my mom’s recipe for the salmon. This is the recipe she used to get me to eat salmon back in high school. It’s so easy, and unbelievably delicious. Rub the salmon with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced onion. Pour low-sodium (gluten free if you want) soy sauce on top. Squeeze half of a lime over the top, and the salmon with a tablespoon of brown sugar.
Put the salmon in the oven and bake for 20 minutes at 425 degrees. (assuming you have a thick cut). Take a spoon and drizzle the sauce at the bottom of the pan on top of the salmon. Cook for seven more minutes. If you have a smaller cut, just cut the cooking time a bit. The inside of the salmon will be moist, fall apart so easily, and bouncy in the middle.
The perfect dinner! “This is the best salmon I’ve ever had; nothing comes close” – Kyle! WIN!
Tonight we are doing cake and ice cream! I bought a peanut butter chocolate cake from Whole Foods, and it looks so tasty. Last year, we made a CRAZY cake, but there was way too much leftover, so I bought a smaller cake this year.
I wanted a cleaner and classier look, so I decided to get eight inches cut off! I’m OBSESSED with how it turned out, and I feel so much better. I hit my breaking point during Sunday’s workout. My hair kept falling out of the hair tie while working out, my hair was heavy, it was tangled, and I was sick of not being able to do anything with it. My hair stylist literally cut dreads out of my hair…
I wanted a cleaner and classier look, so I decided to get eight inches cut off! I’m OBSESSED with how it turned out, and I feel so much better. What do you guys think?
I will be going back to this stylist again and again. He saw the photo I brought in, didn’t try to convince me to do anything else, went right at it, and nailed it! He did it all in under one hour. His name is Scott Collins, and he works at the Park Road Plaza Dolce Lusso! It’s an Aveda salon, and I highly recommend him.
I headed to the fresh market on the way home for a treat!
Questions for you!
- Do you ever get so frustrated with your hair?
- Have you ever experienced work out fomo?
- Do you have any end-of-the-summer plans?
Ken says
You just inspired me to get my hair done.
Taralynn McNitt says
Do it 😀
Kaitlyn says
I got bangs back in December and am still regretting that decision. I’m waiting for them to grow out to comfortably tuck behind my ears before getting my haircut again, but overall I like the length right now otherwise! I have FOMO from solo bikes rides I take – essentially that if I don’t head out for a spin I’ll be missing a biking high, beautiful scenery and that sense of relaxation. My mom and sister just visited me in Seattle, so that was my big end of summer trip. We explored Seattle top to bottom, and squeezed in a visit to my favorite place on earth, Cape Flattery out on the Olympic Peninsula. We also hiked Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Park. I’ll take a few days here and there later this month before my job gets busy again. I’m also currently interviewing for a new job and if I am hired on, I plan to take a road trip from San Francisco to San Diego with my beau!
Taralynn McNitt says
Getting bangs is a scary choice! You never know if you’re going to love or hate them, but the great thing is that its hair and they always grow back out.
ohhhhh how fun!!! Seattle is gorgeous. My uncle lives there!
Crossing my fingers for you!!!! good luck on that interview girl & a trip to san/san sounds amazing!
Stephanie says
Your hair looks great!!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!!
jordan @ dancing for donuts says
happy birthday, kyle! super jealous of your gym date and chipotle/cake! i’m also jealous that you got to go to the PGA Tour…i used to go to golf tournaments with my dad every year when i was younger and they were SO much fun (even though they may not sound like it!). p.s. your hair looks aahhhhhmazing 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Jordan!!!!
Jordan says
Your hair looks lovely! I chopped 6 inches off mine last year and now I’m growing it back out. You make me want to chop it off again lol.
Funny you mentioned fresh starts at the beginning on your post, I just posted something about that earlier today! Monday’s are great for that ;).
I’m actually taking Wednesday off and my boyfriend and I are going to go camping tomorrow night to Wednesday night! That’s all for “plans” for the end of summer lol.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Jordan!
Mondays are so perfect for fresh starts!
Ohhhhhh so fun! Love a good camping trip 🙂
Brooklyn says
YOUR FIRST TIME IN A PORTA POTTY WHAT?!?!
I’ve been using them for as long as I remember due to long road trips and lots of camping as a kid. They can get pretty bad so I’m always so happy to find a clean one.
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ve been avoiding them all my life, but when you are somewhere for nine hours drinking water…you have to do it lol
Shannen says
Oh my goodness! Your hair looks amazing! I still so frustrated with my hair, but I’m determined to grow it out to a certain length before I let myself cut.. I did just get it trimmed though (got to keep those ends heathy!)
Your dads are adorable(: and you and Meighan are so awesome to hang out with them like that!
Sambazon is my all time favorite drink. Their Energy blend wakes me up more than two cups of coffee. So good!
Happy birthday, Kyle!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Shannen!
I’m loving the Sambazon too!!
xo xo Have a great week.
Melissa FitzGerald says
I recently got a new gym bag from Fitmark, and I’m OBSESSED with it. It could easily be used as a travel bag or overnight bag, too! They’re a little pricey but mine was on sale and I think it still is — I believe the one I got is called the Athletic Tote! 🙂
1. I used to have hair down to my waist, and it annoyed me more than I liked it. A few months ago, I walked into my hair salon and told my stylist to cut 12 inches off, and I was sooo happy with it. (Of course, now I’m thinking of growing it out just a bit longer, but nothing near what it used to be!)
2. Workout FOMO is so real! My sister goes to this AMAZING MMA gym, and whenever I visit her I always try to tag along. I wish I lived closer to her because I’m obsessed with the kickboxing classes she takes me to! I always get super jealous and FOMO-y (is that a word? I’m making it a word) when I see her check in on Facebook!
3. No big end-of-summer plans here, but I’m cracking my diet and workout routine into high gear to get ready for my sister’s wedding in October! I finally picked my bridesmaid’s dress and it’s a bit more fitted than I anticipated, so I gotta be ready!
Taralynn McNitt says
I checked out their bags and love them! Thanks for the rec.
12 INCHES! Love it. I had eleven inches cut off three years ago! It was so dead at the ends that you could hardly tell it was there lol
lol fomo-y works!!!
I’m sure you’ll look beautiful!!!
Katie says
Phil MICKLESON.
Taralynn McNitt says
Shows you how much I know about golf.
Carly says
1. I’m frustrated with my hair right now for the same reasons as you! I’m sick of trying to style it and it just gets thrown in a messy pony. Your pretty cut had me convinced, it’s getting chopped!
2. I have workout fomo anytime I hear or see of someone doing yoga. Love group yoga but it gets expensive!
3. I want to go fishing! Or golfing, or to see some live music!
Taralynn McNitt says
You go girl! I love long hair, but love the short hair even more!
Yeah, doing power hour and checking out specials always makes yoga more affordable!
FUN!
marti @fitwithheart says
i’ve come to the conclusion we need a CHOPT here or something similar. looks AMAZING!
Taralynn McNitt says
Everyone needs a Chopt!!
Dana says
1.) Yes a few months ago I couldn’t handle the hair I’ve been growing for the past 2 years and the results are much like your new cut; I couldn’t be happier with it.
2.) Yes, but it’s more of a “I know I missing out..” I’d love to go unlimited to my gym, but that class package is $50 more a month than what I’m paying now, which is pretty expensive in the first place. I make the most of my classes for the week by incorporating the exercises we did into my home routine so I never get bored.
3.) I’m going whale watching! I’m so excited! I’ve wanted to do that since I was really young.
Taralynn McNitt says
I agree! Scary to take the jump, but always worth it!
Sounds like a good plan! I love a good home routine!
WHAT!? How fun!!!
Susie @ Mile High Dreamers says
Your dads were so cute and happy! That’s a LONG day of golf, but you can’t be mad when it brings them so much joy haha.
And your hair looks AMAZING! It’s so healthy and shiny now, I love it!
Pretty much always am frustrated with my hair haha. It’s curly naturally and I almost never have time to straighten it anymore, so when I run, it’s always bouncing all over in my face. Not a cute look.
I always have work out FOMO! Especially if a teacher I know I like is teaching. Or I’ll say that I’m going to take a rest day, and then be sad that I’m not going to be sore the next day haha.
Nothing crazy planned, but we have a couple of Red Rocks concerts left (most epic venue ever!), and maybe squeeze in some camping too!
Happy Birthday Kyle!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much, Susie!!
It’s hard to have long hair when it’s curly as a runner because it’s so heavy and just breaks off!
YES!!! The fomo is real!
I need to make a trip to CO!
XO
Sam says
Your hair looks stunning! Such a good look for you.
I was wondering if you use your fitbit to track your workouts? I have the Alta HR as well, and can’t seem to figure it out!! I input my workout info before I do it (say, stair master for 10 minutes), and it tells me I would burn 90 cal. But it doesn’t adjust to the actual workout – like if I stay on longer for 10 minutes it doesn’t recognize that, and still shows I burnt 90 calories, even though I would have burnt more for staying on longer?
Just wondering if you have this problem or what steps you take to track your work out that maybe I am doing wrong 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Sam!
For adding workouts like circuit training/biking/fitness classes! I just add logs and make sure to log it at the exact time that I did the workout for! It’ll recognize my heart heart and determine calories burned during that time. So if I went to a hitt class at 10:45 I’ll log it for 10:45 for 45 minutes!
Sara says
Your hair looks adorable! I love it!! I am so frustrated with my hair. It’s a tangly mess. After my wedding in October I’m chopping it off! I cant wait!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Sara!!
That’ll be a fun fresh start after your wedding!
xo
Amie says
I loved the Jcrew dresses you had on snap chat!
Taralynn McNitt says
I ended up getting them!
Lauren says
Your hair looks so good!!! I haven’t had mine cut since before my baby was born and that was a year ago!!! I am in desperate need and your pic is giving me some motivation!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Lauren!
Go get that cut! You deserve it! Even if it’s small 🙂
xo
Elizabeth says
I agree about the Lilly Pulitzer fit. They make them for athletic bodies and not just stick figures!
Taralynn McNitt says
They did fit well!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
The new hairstyle looks great, Taralynn! And as usual, you’ve got me hungry reading your post!
I used to ALWAYS get frustrated with my hair when I was young. Luckily as I grew it became tamer, so it’s really manageable now! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Charmaine!
You have beautiful hair, so I don’t blame you!
Taralynn
Edly says
You and Meighan look adorable!
Taralynn McNitt says
Aww thank you !
May says
Bringing in the photo of your hair! Love it.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, May!
Alison says
OMG YOUR HAIR! LOVE IT!
Taralynn McNitt says
thanks alison!!!
Linda @ the Fitty says
IKR IT’S GORGEOUS!!
And yes all the time!I have Fomo with nearly everything, I always feel like I need to maximize the most out of life when really taking a step back would be the most beneficial. I get decision paralysis a lot!
Hannah A says
My boyfriend was impressed with the day of golf you guys got to enjoy! He loves it, but I’m so new and terrible it’s almost comical. I’ve never watched before, but I can imagine 6-8 hours of it would get a little long! I love how excited your dads looked, though! Worth. It.
I DEFINITELY get frustrated with my hair sometimes! It is naturally curly, but not like “kinky” curly or coarse so that I can use products with a lot of oils or heavy moisturizers, which is what a LOT of products for curly hair are… but it’s not thin/fine enough that I can use things with just sea salt or just hairspray and think that it will remain decent looking all day. Ugh! I end up switching it up so often and can’t settle on one product.
However, my sister and I are almost a year and a half-two years into a 5-year-no-major-hair-cuts deal we made with each other! So, I’m committed to keep trying to make it look good!
I totally understand workout FOMO, and right now I have a flair up of runners knee in my right knee and some tendinitis in my left achilles which STINKS. Yoga, swimming, and biking have been my go tos, when all I want is to be able to continue my running workouts to get better! I have a goal of being able to run 8 miles by the time I turn 26 (I turn 25 in two days! Woo!) and I started my current running plan from basically ground zero! Here’s to hoping my body heals quickly!
Keep being amazing and making such healthy choices for your mind, body and spirit! They’re working out beautifully!
Taralynn McNitt says
I agree, Hannah!
It was so worth it because they were so so so happy afterward.
It’s funny how we get frustrated with our own hair but others envy our hair. I love your hair! Sometimes switching up products help our “hair plateaus’ lol
Ohhhhh runners knee is the WORST!!!! I had it flare up during mile nine on my half. Keep resting it! You’ll be better in no time
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
xo xo xox have the best week ever girl!!!!!
Lauren says
You’re hair looks beautiful! I’m glad you had such a great week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Lauren!
Harriet says
Fantastic recap! Happy birthday to Kyle! Your hair looks amazing, I am currently frustrated with my hair, my last hair stylist cut it to short, so waiting for it to grow out, to do a new style. Definitely going to try your salmon recipe looks great. definitely get workout fomo, I take my niece to kids crossfit at my gym, I always end up joining in. We are planning on having a end of summer bbq and bombfire with friends and family at the beach. Hope you have a fantastic week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Harriet!
I think it’s so fun they have kids crossfit!
Ohhhh love a good bonfire/bbq!
have a fun week!
Jane says
Love your new hair! And I’m stealing that salmon recipe, I was looking for a new way to cook it 😀
Do you ever get so frustrated with your hair?
Yes! I had short hair for almost two years, and I’m trying to get them long now (it’s been a year since my last cut). I sometimes feel like they never grow (now I take photos every month and, yes, they’re growing!)
Have you ever experienced work out fomo?
It happened just yesterday. I was supposed to do just a little upper body workout and a soft kick-boxing video, and then I remembered that great core circuit I love… I was really satisfied after that!
Do you have any end-of-the-summer plans?
I’m starting my 10k race training plan this week, so it’s my plan for the end of summer : running, running, and running! I couldn’t really run the past three months (tough weeks at work) so I need to get back in shape and with a goal to reach : finishing in 55 minutes. It sounds not very funny but I really missed my runs and competition! (plus, the race is in my sister’s city – can’t wait to see her after months apart)
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Jane!
& I hope you enjoy the salmon recipe!
We just get so used to our length and think it’s not growing, but it is! Also, gelatin helps with growth! I buy plain and add it to my smoothies sometimes.
Nice job on your workout yesterday!
Oh, how fun!!! I will have to get back into running eventually!
Vanessa says
Lovely post, looks like you had a great time at the tournament! 🙂
Do you ever get so frustrated with your hair?
I do very often, and sometimes it leads to random spontaneous changes. Just died it platinum blonde – looks super surprising but I love it 😀
Do you have any end-of-the-summer plans?
Next week I’ll go hiking with my best friend for a few days. So exciting, we didn’t have much time to catch up the last months so this is way overdue!
Taralynn McNitt says
Very fun!
Ahhh so fun! I did blonde one time! The thing I learned is that you have to spend lots of time and management on the upkeep! But it’s worth it. I’m sure yours looks lovely.
Sounds like a fun trip!
Jessica says
I just cut 8″ off of mine on Saturday because it was time for something new! Your hair looks fabulous!
Taralynn McNitt says
I feel ya, girl! Perfect end of the summer look!:) Plus, the summer did some damage to my ends! & thank you!
Ann says
Love the hair, so pretty! Shorter is always better! ?
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Ann! It’s a lot easier to style!
Sara says
Hair goals!
Printing out your workouts now.
Thank you for the constant inspiration.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Sara!:)
Katie says
Ok LOVE LOVE LOVEEEE your hair!! it looks so good on you, girl!! & that Chopt salad looks so good.. Wish I had one where I lived. My end of summer plans consist of a vacation to Key West – I cannot wait! Gonna do a whole lot of relaxing and exploring. Hope you have a great week!!!!!!!!! 🙂 🙂
XO, Katie | http://www.meshkomoments
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much, Katie!
I think they need to get Chopt EVERYWHERE! I love it so much.
OMG you’re going to have a blast!! I love Florida 🙂 We are going again for Thanksgiving and I’m counting down the days!
xo xo
Kelli says
So I read your posts every week and they’re so motivating! I get on a kick and I do really well for about a week, then I fall of the wagon. This is my pattern and it sucks. I’m trying SO hard to break it and I think I may find some relief in circuits, it sounds like they produce results quicker and I think that’s what I need to keep me motivated! I just did one of your circuits from a previous blog post (like a year ago) this morning and I’m feeling it already! Please keep posting circuit workout ideas, or maybe do a challenge for September?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelli!
I’m so happy to hear that! You have to find what works and what makes you continue to keep it up! I am putting together a PDF that everyone can download that’ll have my workouts! 🙂
A challenge could be in the works!
xo
Tammy says
Love the hair!!!! I bet it feels so much lighter!! A great way to come into fall. Those colorful potatoes are beautiful!!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Tammy!
Caitlyn says
I love that you post your workouts the way you do, it makes it so easy to just print them out or screen shot them on my phone and take them with me to the gym, all the hassle of creating a workout list GONE! And, I totally feel you on the hair thing, I used to have hair down to the middle of my back then one day I decided to cut it up to my shoulders and I LOVE it!! Especially because where I live, the humidity is so bad you can’t wear your hair down for literally 6 months out of the year, because as soon as you step outside it looks like a giant birds nest.
Taralynn McNitt says
So glad you like them! I am actually working on a PDF with ALL of them! SAME GIRL!!!!!!!!! The humidity and my hair are NOT friends and having it shorter has been so great! I am going to keep it like this!
Caitlyn says
OMG I can’t wait to see that PDF it will be soo helpful having it all in one place 🙂
Meghan Richer says
Love the new haircut! Super cute! My sister in law & her husband were at the PGA tournament there, I haven’t seen her yet to ask how she liked it. My main frustration with my hair is that I can’t have ALL THE STYLES haha. I’m so indecisive and literally want to change my hair all the time, I wish I could afford wigs haha. But I hear ya on in being a huge pain during workouts and getting ready-my hair is about waist long right now (though a few inches are extensions) and I think I’m going to take out the extensions and chop it to about the same length as you- I’m sick of every day I have to blow dry it becoming arm day lol
I get workout FOMO sort of on the weekends. Sometimes I’ll think about skipping the workout but then I start to think about how crummy I’ll feel later in the day if I don’t just suck it up and do it.
My only end of summer plans right now are going to the state fair this weekend. Got to have a state fair corndog haha
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Meghan!!
hahahaha that would be awesome! Yeah, I’m sure extensions would be hard! It’s so much lighter now and it doesn’t break when I run or fall out of the tie!
Good that you get the motivation to get up and go!
Have fun at the state fair! I miss the Iowa State fairs!
Anni says
Nice hair 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!
Heather says
How do you get motivated to get up at like 5am? Do you go to bed at a decent hour? I have a hard tome reminding myself to go to bed early. Well earlier than 1am…. any tips? Also how do you get motivated to cook all your meals, workout, and just get out of a slump. I was doing really well last month and just fell off the wagon. I don’t find myself reaching for veggies, fruit, or even wanting to eat breakfast. Any tips to pass this? ?
Taralynn McNitt says
I go to bed around 9:50 every night and fall asleep around 10:30. I am just weirdly happy about waking up and I cannot sit there and lay in bed. Once my eyes open, I’m instantly up and ready to start the day! I think it’s the habits I look forward to. The more and more you wake up early, the more your body will start doing it on its own. You can train your body like clockwork! I think just make it a habit and reevaluate your routine. What made you stop? What didn’t work? If it’s timing, come up with ways to make the meals easier to grab n go, if it’s too tired to workout, try finding workouts that are more relaxing that allow you to decompress. Just little factors and changes can help you reach the big goals!
Hannah Schwartz says
1. Definitely relate to being fed up with my hair! A year ago I cut off 8 inches as well, then cut off another 4 because I loved it short!
2. Last week i went on a totally unplanned run because my dad and sister were going for a bike ride and I wanted to join in! Was planned, but it felt great. I think these are the best kind of workouts.
3. The last weekend in August we are going camping at the ocean which I am looking forward to!
Taralynn McNitt says
I think I’ll go another two inches off next month! I love the new length! I wouldn’t mind going shorter.
I have to agree with you! The unplanned ones seem to be better because sometimes we process the workout all day in our minds. When we don’t do that, we go in there with a clean and open mindset!
Ohhhh so fun!! Perfect way to end the summer.
Kalin says
Your hair looks so good, you chose a great cut!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Kalin!
Ray says
I wish I could have gone to the PGA! All of the tickets were sold out and the ones I wanted to buy were over $200 🙁 You guys were so lucky.
Taralynn McNitt says
I couldn’t believe how fast they sold out! We lucked out finding out tickets!
Jennifer says
YES! I get frustrated with my hair all the time. When I was really young, it was super straight. Then, my mom cut it so that it was basically a pixie cut, and after that it’s been wavy ever since! Especially through high school, it was always super frizzy, but I’ve learned to love it just air dried. So much healthier! I wish I looked good with short hair… but I just can’t stand it on myself! I love my long hair.
I have my cousin’t wedding in two weeks which basically tops off my summer plans… except there are 20 DAYS UNTIL CHARLOTTE 😀 😀 WOOT WOOT 😉
P.S. Happy Birthday Kyle!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s crazy how our hair changes over the years!!
I loved my long hair too, it was just so hard to control!
You’ll have so much fun in Charlotte! Wish I was going to be here!!!
You’ll have to let me know where you stop!
xo
Amy says
You look adorable with your hair short!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Amy!!
Deepa says
Love the Salmon recipe! Your hair looks great 🙂
1. The hair struggle is real. I had alopecia last August and 70% of my hair fell out. It’s all finally growing back in (YAYYY) but it looks a little crazy at the moment. Can’t wait till it’s fully grown in!
2. All my cousins have fitbits and do challenges. I lost my charger and finally got a new one, so excited to be back in the game! It’d be fun if we all connected on fitbit we could do challenges on the blog 🙂
3. Going to see the hubs in a few weeks!! (long distance marriage)
Love the blog!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Deepa!
So sorry to hear that you had to experience that! & happy that it’s getting better! Love your positive attitude!
I do love the challenges! I compete in them with my friends!:)
AWWWWW enjoy your time with him!!!
xo
Hannah says
Love those lilly shorts!
Taralynn McNitt says
They’re so comfortable!
Melanie says
Love you in any hair style!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks girl!
Emma says
Just bought the same Lilly shorts as you! Too funny! I like Meighans as well.
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol they are so cute ::)
Sara says
What do you put in your coffee?
Taralynn McNitt says
Just a splash of light cream
Jayna says
You and your dad look so much alike!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol I think so too!
May says
Do you have any tips for waking up early?
Taralynn McNitt says
I think training your body to do it is the only way it becomes a routine! I look forward to the quiet time with coffee, my dog walks, and those are all positive things I correlate waking up with! 🙂 Make it a positive routine!
Nicole W. says
Your posts are so positive! I love reading your uplifting words & advice. Your hair looks awesome! I’ll bet you feel a ton lighter 🙂
I get very frustrated with my hair at times! I can totally relate when you say your stylist found ‘dreads’! Lol. I’m growing my hair out for my wedding in December, so I only have a few months left of this & I’ll be chopping it off!
I feel like I definitely get FOMO when I see some of my friends posting about their awesome spin classes. Sometimes, our local gym will have spin classes with cool lights & music that go along with it. It makes it more fun! Also, I don’t know what it is, but I love having sore legs & booty after a good spin workout!
My end-of-the-summer plans are to hopefully downsize & get rid of things I don’t use/want anymore to prep for the cold months! (I see you also did this a bit ago!)
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Nicole!
It most certainly does feel better!
Spin classes are fun because they’re dark, lots of great music, and you get into your own zone!
I’ve been doing the same! Feels so good!
Rox says
YOU AND MEIGHAN ARE SO CUTE!
Taralynn McNitt says
🙂 well thank ya!
Ames says
What is your favorite post workout shake?
Taralynn McNitt says
Vanilla protein powder/half frozen banana/unsweetened almond milk!
Anonymous says
Do you golf still?
Taralynn McNitt says
Sometimes!
I haven’t been out much this summer because it’s been so hot and my dad’s shoulder has been hurting him! He’s my golfing bud.
Kayla says
I was wondering if Kyle and you ever work out together? Or does he ever train you? My boyfriend is a personal trainer too and he will train me and sometimes work out with me but it can feel a bit weird! I’m not complaining about free workouts or extra time with him but it can be an odd position and I almost feel like his client at times when he trains me. I figured I would ask if you and Kyle ever do this.
Also I love the new hair! Looks great 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kayla!
Kyle isn’t a personal trainer, but he does help me with a lot of workouts! He has the best advice! Sometimes, Kyle will show me how to do a circuit, tells me how many times to do it, and then I do it on my own. When I finish, he gives me another, and so on! If your boyfriend is treating you like a client, he may just be excited that you’re working out with him and he probably wants to show you what he does during the day to impress you! I wouldn’t be too worried about it, I guarantee he just loves helping you! But if it makes you uncomfortable, just tell him! Communication is important 🙂
James says
The Mint RX bar is my favorite too
Taralynn McNitt says
SO GOOD!
Lorane says
Looks like a fun day! Happy birthday to Kyle.
Taralynn McNitt says
It was !:) x o
Candice says
Your Dads look so happy!
Taralynn McNitt says
hahha they were!!
Mary says
OMG JUSTIN BEIBER WAS THERE!
Taralynn McNitt says
A lot of celebs showed up!
Hailey says
You are so pretty, Taralynn
Taralynn McNitt says
XO XO
Chasidy says
That salmon recipe was delicious!
Taralynn McNitt says
So glad you tried it!
Anonymous says
Love the lilly shorts
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks!
Nicole says
I have always had an aversion to any and all seafood and my husband has been begging me to try salmon for years. I sent him this blog post yesterday and told him to make it exactly like this and I would try it. He made it tonight and it was absolutely incredible!! Great recipe!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’m SO HAPPY to hear that!!! This is the first recipe that got me to eat fish! My mom made it in high school!!
Addison says
I LOVE your new hair! It looks so good!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Addison!
Anonymous says
Your dad is adorable and so is meighans!
Taralynn McNitt says
thank you:)
Tiffany says
Just found your blog yesterday and have been making my way through them. You’re delightful to read and I especially enjoy seeing your different recipes. I’ve been making life changes the last few months and one of them was making nutritional changes for me and my kids. Went through our cupboards and completely threw out anything that wasn’t nutritional and pretty much all things processed. Then started cooking our food in new ways…healthier ways….and trying food that we hadn’t given a chance yet. Seafood is one of the foods that I don’t have a lot of experience with cooking, I’m picky about seafood in general, but I saw your salmon recipe and I wanted to try it out. I bought some salmon last night but I don’t know if I’m supposed to cut the skin off or not. What do you do?
Looking forward to trying a lot of your recipes. Thank you so much.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Tiffany!
Welcome 🙂 So glad you stumbled upon my blog!
I think it’s so great that you’re making changes for you and your kids. I wish I had that when I was younger! I kind of grew up on pizza hut, boxed mac and cheese, and McDonalds. Not even kinda, basically every meal. Keep being a role model!
Salmon is a great one to start with!
You don’t have to take the skin off, once you cook it, it’ll fall right off. Just marinate it with some light soy sauce, lime juice, honey, seasonings, and bake it! Make sure you don’t overcook it or it’ll be dry. 🙂 I’ll have my salmon recipe up this week! Also thinking about doing a video of it!:) If you visit my “eats” story on my Instagram page, I have a video of me grilling the salmon so you can see how it looks!
😀 keep up the amazing work!